Another San Fran visitor

Hello Everybody!

My BF's company is sending him to San Fran for a conference the first week of Sept. and I've decided to tag along. (8/31 to 9/6)

We are staying downtown at the Grand Hayatt near Union Square. He'll be at the conference all day T-Th, leaving me with time to play uber tourist. I'm looking at some walking tours; if any of you have recommendations, I'm all ears! And shopping...I never shop on vacation, but I'd like to do a little this trip.

Friday and Saturday we plan to do some bike touring. One of the days we'd like to rent bikes and take BART out to Walnut Creek or Pleasant Hill to climb Mt. Diablo. The other day we are looking at renting a car and driving out to wine country (probably Sonoma), renting there and doing some touring and tasting.

I've read the bike rental threads and recommendations, thank you very much, It's been a big help to have a starting point! The rental shop and local club info provided has been very helpful for planning in the Sonoma area. I've found a route from Walnut Hill to Diablo, but I'm not sure if there are shops near there to rent from, or if we're better off renting downtown and taking them with us on BART

I am doing my homework, but if anyone can provide cliff notes, I would be appreciated. We're looking to ride 40-60 miles, B pace/terrain. With some nice CA climbs!

Thanks so much,
Beth

Beth, If you can find a bike or 2, I'll ride with you up Mt Diablo on a Friday (not as much traffic on a weekday up there). Depending on the weather, we should start early as it gets quite warm up there. Today when we got to the junction of the north and south sides it was 90 degrees in the shade with little wind. The summit was probably about 95 or so. We came down at the junction due to time constraints and heat.

You can PM me if you wish and I can give you some tips on riding on BART and what station you should go to. BART is easy to get around as you sound like you may know already.

That would be lovely, Nancy. We have bike rentals arranged for 9/4 and 9/5. I'll PM my number.

Beth

Beth,
Just got your message with your number. Let's talk when you get closer. I'm either at home or out on my bike somewhere! :D:D:D